XL Express closes after 35 years in operation, leaving 200 jobless; transport industry hit again after Don Watson's fall

XL Express, a major Australian transport and logistics company, has collapsed after 35 years in business, leaving around 200 workers without jobs and owing nearly $42 million in debts.

The Brisbane-based company, which operated depots in the country's east coast, including major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Darwin, went into voluntary administration in late June 2025.

According to news.com.au, on August 4, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission issued a notice to wind up the company and its 17 associated entities.

Operations ceased and staff stood down

A report by The Courier Mail confirmed that XL Express ceased operations without notice. Administrators confirmed the shutdown of multiple sites and the standing down of all staff. On June 23, the Western Sydney premises were locked due to unpaid rent.

The company began in Brisbane in 1990 and offered national delivery services to homes and businesses. It also partnered with the Brisbane Lions football club in 2019.

FTI Consulting’s administrators – Kelly-Anne Trenfield, Ross Blakely and Joanne Dunn – were appointed to review the company’s financial position and oversee the liquidation process.

Millions in debt and asset sales underway

According to a Daily Mail report quoting the administrators' report, XL Express owes an estimated $41.9 million. This includes $5.3 million owed to employees, $3.4 million to the Australian Taxation Office, and $18.9 million to lenders such as NAB, ScotPac, and Judo Bank. Around $12.4 million is also owed to other unsecured creditors.

The company had reportedly been facing ongoing cash flow issues since January 2023, incurring losses over the last three financial years. Administrators also noted several active injury compensation claims.

Before its collapse, XL Express began working with Manheim Auctioneers to sell its vehicle fleet.

Customers and creditors affected

The sudden shutdown left customers unable to access their deliveries. Some reported locked gates and unanswered calls at distribution centres, while others said they received minimal communication from company staff.

FTI Consulting stated that arrangements were being made for customers to collect goods from XL Express facilities where possible. As per the Courier Mail article, the first creditors' meeting was scheduled to be held before July 9.

XL Express’ downfall follows the collapse of another longstanding transport firm, Don Watson Group, which shut down in June 2025 after 77 years. That company cited economic conditions for its closure and also began liquidating its fleet.